Watamu , which means “sweet people” in Swahili, is an ancient fishing village with less than 2000 inhabitants. This name encompasses the heart and soul of this coastal community. The proposed excursion offers the opportunity to explore this fascinating village through a walk through its streets to discover daily life and local traditions.
During your visit, you will have the opportunity to observe many facets of village life, including the mosques, shops selling a wide range of wares, the well from which people draw water, the quinine plant in the Muslim cemetery, the local cinema, the artisan shops, the port and, of course, the famous stalls along the lively Watamu Beach Road. This street is the beating heart of the village, especially in the evening, when the Come Back Club becomes the meeting point for an international and local clientele, with dinner and music played by DJs until late at night.
Another almost obligatory stop for those who dedicate time to exploring the streets of Watamu is a visit to Timboni, a typical local village where it is possible to observe the daily life of the local population. Here you can admire the characteristic mud houses located among palm groves, with animals such as chickens, cows and goats.
Itinerary
The excursion begins with departure from your accommodations to reach Watamu village. During your visit, you will stroll through the streets of the village center, exploring the mosques, colorful shops, cinema, artisan shops, water well, Muslim cemetery and more.
Next, you will head along the busy Watamu Beach Road for a walk among the characteristic stalls, where you can immerse yourself in the typically African sounds, colors and scents. The visit continues towards the sea, with a stop at the port and a walk along the coast.
Next, you will visit the Zebra Shop, where you can find a wide range of handcrafted products perfect for souvenirs.
If you wish, you can make a final stop in Timboni, where you will have the opportunity to explore the village, admire the characteristic mud houses and immerse yourself in the life habits of the local community. You can also bring biscuits or clothing to the children of the village, a gesture of kindness much appreciated in this economically disadvantaged area.